The Art of Crafting a DIY Static Grass Applicator: Solution for modelers

Creating stunning model terrains and dioramas often requires the use of a static grass applicator, a tool that can significantly elevate the realism of the scene. However, commercial static grass applicators can be costly, leaving hobbyists in search of a more budget-friendly option. This blog post provides a comprehensive guide to assembling a DIY static grass applicator using readily available household items, with the only purchased component being a negative ion generator. The focus is on repurposing everyday objects to achieve a high-quality outcome while keeping costs low.

Components

The DIY static grass applicator consists of six main components:

• Power source
• Switch
• Negative ion generator
• Handle
• Grass chamber
• Wire mesh

The only component requiring purchase is the negative ion generator, available from contactoprdepot.com for under $20. The power source can me something like an old cable modem power pack with a 12V and 1A DC output. The handle can be made from a repurposed small bottle or similar tubular item, while the grass chamber can be made from something like an old soup container. The wire mesh can be sourced from an old kitchen sifter, and the switch can be any reclaimed switch from a retired flashlight or small toy.

Assembly

Follow the step-by-step guide below to assemble the DIY static grass applicator: 

• Prepare the negative ion generator: The negative ion generator has three wires: two red (positive) and one black (negative). Strip a portion of the black wire's shielding and attach a 3-foot extension wire, which will function as the probe. Solder the extension wire to the black wire and cover the joint with heat shrink or electrical tape.

• Prepare the power supply: Remove the small plug from the power adapter, separate the two wires, and strip back the coating by half an inch on each wire. Ensure the adapter remains unplugged throughout the process. Tin the wire ends with solder to facilitate easier soldering later.

• Prepare the handle: Cut a hole in the seasoning bottle's lid to accommodate the switch. Drill a small hole below the switch hole and another in the bottom of the seasoning container.

• Wire the handle: Feed the power supply wires through the hole at the container's bottom and out of the switch hole. Next, insert the red and black wires from the negative ion generator through the seasoning bottle's mouth and out of the switch hole.

• Make connections: Twist together the two ground wires protruding from the switch hole, solder them, and cover the joint with heat shrink or electrical tape. Connect the positive wire from the negative ion generator to the switch's middle terminal and the positive wire from the power supply to the top terminal. Solder these connections and cover them with heat shrink.

• Assemble the grass chamber: Cut a hole in the soup container's bottom, matching the seasoning bottle's opening size. Screw the seasoning bottle into the hole. Drill a small hole in the seasoning container lid, feed the final positive wire from the negative ion generator through the hole, and secure the lid.

• Attach the wire mesh: Cut a wire mesh piece to fit the soup container lid, leaving some overlap for attachment. Cut a hole in the soup container lid, slightly smaller than the wire mesh, and attach the mesh using hot glue.

• Final assembly: Attach the grass chamber to the handle and connect the wire mesh to the probe wire.

By following the above guide, hobbyists can create a functional, cost-effective static grass applicator by repurposing everyday items. This environmentally friendly and budget-conscious approach offers a creative solution for those looking to enhance their model terrains and dioramas without breaking the bank.